Our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14), with a remarkable ability to maintain balance—even in the face of extreme heat. But during the hot days of summer, we often forget how fragile that balance can be. While it might seem like diving into a cold shower is the obvious remedy, science—and prudence—suggests we need to be more thoughtful, especially as Catholics called to care for the gift of our bodies.
According to a report on thermoregulation and temperature management, our bodies function best at around 37°C (98.6°F). When we overheat, reaching temperatures of 39–40°C, “this can lead to organ damage,” and the body quickly begins to activate its cooling mechanisms (according to The Conversation). These mechanisms are not arbitrary; they reflect the intricate design God built into our biology, from sweating to dilated blood vessels. As the article explains, “The ones closest to the skin dilate (widen) to allow more blood into them so they can get close to the relatively cooler surface of the skin.” This process allows heat to leave the body gently and safely.
But what happens when we short-circuit this natural process by leaping into an ice-cold shower?
It may feel refreshing, but it can actually be harmful. “When exposed to cold, the blood vessels near to the skin constrict—reducing the blood flow into these areas.” That means the heat your body is trying to release gets trapped around your vital organs, exactly where you don’t want it to be. Instead of cooling off, you’re signaling your body to retain heat. Even worse, jumping into cold water—especially water around 15°C—can trigger a “cold shock response,” which rapidly raises blood pressure and may even lead to irregular heartbeat or death in vulnerable individuals (according to The Conversation). In other words, a moment of relief might put undue stress on a body already working hard to cool itself.
As Catholics, we’re called to care for our bodies, not abuse them, even unintentionally. St. Paul reminds us, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). That means making choices rooted in both faith and reason. When heat is high, the more respectful and effective method of cooling down isn’t to shock the body but to support it gently.
The best approach? “A lukewarm or cool shower or bath, rather than a cold shower, is a safer and more effective choice,” according to the same source. Ideally, aim for water temperatures around 26–27°C. This range helps draw blood to the skin’s surface, where it can release heat, without signaling the body to conserve warmth.
It’s also worth noting that cold water may not help you get clean. “Cold water has been shown to be less effective at removing and breaking down sebum and other detritus on the skin,” and “can lead to blackheads, whiteheads and acne,” according to the report. On the other hand, lukewarm water can help dissolve oils and clean the skin more thoroughly—a small but meaningful way to respect the dignity of the body, even in daily hygiene.
God’s design is never random. Even in something as simple as sweating or taking a shower, we see His wisdom at work. The next time you’re tempted to jump into a freezing bath to escape the heat, consider instead cooperating with your body’s God-given mechanisms. Treat it with reverence, patience, and gentle care. Supporting our health is a way of honoring the Creator who made us.
